NorrPlant, a summer job to look forward to
How good can a summer job really be? At SCA’s tree nursery NorrPlant the answer is: so good that you want to come back year after year. Stina Ahlmark Wingstedt and Alvar Broman are doing their third straight summer, and they are not alone in wanting to return.
”I would absolutely recommend others to apply for summer job here. There are plenty of pauses and they are generous with coffee breaks,” says Alvar.
Stina and Alvar are 17 years old and about to begin their final year of high school. Stina plays floorball for Sundsvall FBC and has done so since little, while Alvar spends much of his summers golfing.
What do Alvar and Stina do at their summer job?
Most of the time they sit and weed around the seedlings. It might not sound that exciting, but it has several advantages.
“The pay is good and you meet new friends. The tasks aren’t that demanding, so you can just sit and do it. If you’re having a bad day, you can just put on some music. It’s nice,” says Stina.
The summer workers are divided into two groups, each with its own supervisor. Stina and Alvar say they rarely have any questions, but that the supervisors make rounds to check in, and they’re always available by phone. Other staff in the area are helpful too.
“Micke, who drives the tractor, is great at reminding us to drink water, and he often has a parasol,” says Alvar.
Most summer employees are between 16 and 18 years old, and for many NorrPlant is their first summer job. Here they get to work outside, learn responsibility and form friendships that could last a lifetime. Since the workers are spread out among the seedlings, lunch and coffee breaks become a chance to socialize and chat. They usually get a sandwich during the first break and a fruit during the last one. Lately, with the warm weather, they’ve even been treated to ice cream.
Safety First
Safety is a top priority at SCA and that is why the summer employees receive a safety briefing on their first day. This includes rules like always wearing a vest while in the area, staying aware of your surroundings and not listening to music while moving around the area.
The summer job at NorrPlant is more than just work. It’s a place where young people like Stina and Alvar can experience community, security and appreciation. It is in that atmosphere that new friendships grow, laughter is shared during coffee breaks and memories are made. That’s why so many choose to come back, year after year.
Text and photos: Lovisa Kjellén.